New RADAR article on new and amended PBS opioid listings

A new RADAR article Opioids: new and amended PBS listings has been published today on the NPS MedicineWise website.

On 1 June 2020, changes were made to the listings of many opioids and multiple formulations listed on the PBS General Schedule. Changes included new listings for half pack sizes, increased restrictions, and new and amended clinical criteria, prescriber instructions and administrative advice.

The RADAR article explains these changes which have been made to support the appropriate prescribing and use of opioids and reduce harms.

Read the full article.

The NPS MedicineWise health professional hub on opioids for chronic non-cancer pain contains resources and CPD learning opportunities on this topic. A new video has been added that provides information to people who may be considering taking opioids for chronic (ongoing) non-cancer pain.

Last week NPS MedicineWise also published new survey findings showing that although most people surveyed know that there is a link between opioids and dependence, most really aren’t sure what an opioid is.